In La Liga I think it was probably more commonplace for players to push the boundaries when it comes to the laws of the game. Fans there find it easier to turn a blind eye to such antics. But stamps like the one on Can make a mockery of any Respect campaign – remember that? – so have to be punished.

It seems clear to me that Costa deliberately set out to hurt an opponent on Tuesday night and that can’t be tolerated.

Next time he does something like this, his ban should be even longer.

Hit him for five or even six games. Let him get the message that overstepping the mark to gain an advantage is not on. If he doesn’t like it? Go and play in another league.